Leyna Bloom is an American actress, model, dancer, and activist whose work has reshaped visibility and representation across fashion and film. Born in Chicago to a Filipina mother and a French Creole, African American father, Leyna rose from homelessness to international acclaim, becoming a trailblazing figure for marginalized communities worldwide. She made history as the first openly trans woman of color to lead a film at the Cannes Film Festival with Port Authority after 72 years, and as the first openly trans woman of color to ever appear in a fashion editorial in any Vogue magazine. She was also the first openly trans woman of color to appear on Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit cover, now shooting with the magazine four years consecutively, with two covers to date.
In fashion, Leyna has walked major runways in New York, Paris, and Milan and fronted campaigns and runways for Dior, Moschino, L’Oréal Paris, and Tommy Hilfiger, in addition to editorial features including Essence magazine. She was also one of the first openly trans women of color to attend the Met Gala. Emerging from New York’s ballroom scene, her work is grounded in culture, community, and purpose. Beyond her on-camera career, Leyna is a sought-after speaker and advocate, having brought her voice to institutions including Harvard, Columbia, and Brown University, and was invited to meet with Kamala Harris to discuss Asian American voters. She continues to choose impact over hype, building a legacy rooted in truth, artistry, and representation.